Definition

Noun 1. A specific evergreen tree: "California nutmeg" is the common name for Torreya californica, a coniferous evergreen tree native to California. It is named for its seed, which resembles the spice nutmeg in appearance, though not in flavor.

Usage Notes

• "California nutmeg" is a proper noun when referring to the specific tree species. It is often written with initial capital letters.
• It is a countable noun (e.g., , ).
• The term is primarily used in botanical, horticultural, and natural history contexts to identify the tree. It is not used to refer to the true culinary spice (nutmeg, from the tree ).

Examples

• The California nutmeg is a slow-growing tree that can be found in the moist canyons of the Sierra Nevada.
• While its seed looks similar, the California nutmeg is not related to the tropical nutmeg tree.
• We identified a mature California nutmeg by its sharp, pointed needles and fleshy, olive-like fruit.

Advanced Usage

• As a modifier: The term can be used adjectivally to describe parts or characteristics of the tree.
  • The California nutmeg seed has a strong, turpentine-like taste.
  • We studied the California nutmeg population in the state park.

Variants and Related Words

• Torreya californica: The scientific (Latin) name for the California nutmeg tree.
• Stinking yew: Another common name for the same tree, referring to the strong odor of its crushed foliage.
• Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans): The true, unrelated tropical spice tree whose seed is used in cooking. This is the primary meaning of "nutmeg" alone.

Synonyms

• Stinking yew
• Torreya (when context is clear, though this genus includes other species)

Important Distinction

• California nutmeg vs. Nutmeg: These are completely different plants. The "California nutmeg" () is an ornamental/coniferous tree with an inedible seed. "Nutmeg" (from ) is a tropical evergreen and a valuable culinary spice. Do not confuse them.

Noun

1. California evergreen having a fruit resembling a nutmeg but with a strong turpentine flavor